Vietnam’s second largest city, Hanoi is known for being a more scenic, delicious and accessible Vietnamese city than its larger brother to the south.
But with almost 150 hostels in the city, it can be really overwhelming to know where to stay, which is exactly why I made this list of the five best hostels in Hanoi – plus a few more awesome hostels in the city.
Known for its world class street food, and being the gateway to one of the most gorgeous landscapes in Asia (Halong Bay), this is a city that must be on the itinerary for anyone in Vietnam or Asia in general.
And with the help of this guide, you’ll know how to save money while travelling to Hanoi.
I’ve taken the time to organise this list by YOUR travel needs, so whatever you are looking to do in Vietnam (party, chill, sleep, save money) you can quickly find the hostel you need.
With the help of this list, you’ll be able to see the best hostels in Hanoi and book you hostel quickly!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Hanoi
- Best Overall Hostel in Hanoi – Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Hanoi – Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Hanoi – Hanoi Buffalo Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Hanoi – Hanoi Backpackers Hostel
- Best Hostel in Hanoi for Digital Nomads – Little Charm Hanoi Hostel
The 5 Best Hostels in Hanoi
If you’re looking for where to stay in Hanoi, I’ve not only listed Hanoi’s best hostels, but I’ve also gone one further and separated them into different types, to make choosing your ideal pad a piece of cake.
Looking for the best hostel for couples in Hanoi? The best place for solo travellers to stay? The cheapest accommodation, somewhere to work, or somewhere to party until the wee small hours? I’ve got you covered!
1. Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Hanoi
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Address: No 03 Noi Mieu Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
A great place to meet other backpackers, unwind, and explore Hanoi’s coolest sights, The Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is my overall best hostel for 2024. Prices are affordable and there’s a wide choice of private rooms and dorms, with mixed and female-only dorms available. There are plenty of potential new pals to connect with various common areas.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- FREE beers from 18:30-19:00
- FREE walking tours
- Female-only dorms
Head down to their snazzy lounge area at 18:30 as they serve FREE beer every day. Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is the perfect base for solo travellers in Vietnam and groups of friends looking to explore Hanoi. In the heart of the city centre within walking distance of many popular tourist attractions, like the Hoan Kiem Lake, delicious street food, restaurants, and bars.
Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel also offers FREE walking tours which is the perfect way to learn about Hanoi and make some new buddies. The helpful staff are also happy to organise day trips, activities and city tours.
2. Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel – Best Hostel in Hanoi for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $5
- Address: 16 Thanh Ha Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
One of the best hostels for solo travellers backpacking across Vietnam, Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel is run by travellers for travellers. Comfortable, friendly, and affordable, the hostel offers a selection of activities to help you to meet other cool backpackers.
Why you’ll love this Hostel:
- FREE walking tour
- FREE beers
- Relaxing outdoor terrace
Join a free walking tour of the Old Town, have fun on a bar crawl, and indulge in free beer in the bar each evening during happy hour.
There are computers that you can use for free as well as free Wi-Fi. Cheap airport transfers remove the hassle of getting here and save you from needing to find a Hanoi hostel near the airport. There’s an outdoor terrace as well as an indoor common area, both of which are great places to mingle or chill.
3. Hanoi Buffalo Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Hanoi
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Private Room: From $35
- Address: 44 Hang Giay Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi Buffalo Hostel is in a prime location nestled in the Old Quarter, conveniently located next to Beer corner with heaps of bars, delicious street food and restaurants, all within walking distance. Not only is Hanoi Buffalo Hostel in a crackin’ location but you can also enjoy a large outdoor swimming pool, cosy chill-out spaces to meet fellow travellers AND they serve a FREE buffet breakfast every morning.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Large outdoor swimming pool
- FREE buffet breakfast
- Budget backpacker prices
They also have a range of dorms available for a great price. Mixed and female-only dorms with comfy beds, privacy curtains and air conditioning. The staff at Hanoi Buffalo Hostel are super friendly and happy to help organise and book any day trips, and tours to the most beautiful places in Vietnam. They can also give you some insider tips to help with your Hanoi Itinerary.
If you’re feeling social, start the night with FREE beers at the hostel from 7-8 pm then head out on the EPIC nightly pub crawl. Hanoi Buffalo Hostel also has a FREE walking tour at 10 am, which is a great way to see Hanoi, but not so fun after a few too many beers. And the cherry on top, Hanoi Buffalo Hostel costs less than $5, a bloody bargain if you ask me.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Hanoi Backpackers Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Hanoi
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Private Room: From $32
- Address: 1 Ngo Hai Tuong Pho Ta Hien, Ph?ong Hang Buom, Quan Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Alright party peeps, if you’re looking for a wild one, Hanoi Backpackers is for you. Kick off your evening with panoramic city views from the rooftop bar, making the most of the nightly happy hour before joining in on the wild nightly pub crawls ran by Hanoi backpackers hostel.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- FREE buffet breakfast
- Rooftop bar with Panoramic views
- Wild pub crawl every night
Hanoi Backpackers Hostel is located right off Beer Street in the heart of the Old Quarter. Everything you could possibly need is within a 3-minute walk. There is a FREE buffet breakfast every morning, perfect for bringing you back to life.
The rooms at the Hanoi Backpackers Hostel are surprisingly nice for a party hostel. You can get yourself a snazzy private room with a large double bed, air conditioning and a fridge if you want dome space. Or there are mixed and female-only dorms. All dorms come with an electric socket, reading lamp and locker, privacy curtain and air conditioning.
The staff at Hanoi Backpackers Hostel are really friendly and happy to help with any tours or activities you want to book, they’ll even sort you out with a SIM card for your travels.
Overall Hanoi Backpackers Hostel is the best party hostel and gets booked out FAST, so I’d recommend securing your place so you don’t miss out. If you book in advance you can also bag yourself some tasty deals.
5. Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Hanoi
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Address: 44 Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Little Charm Hanoi Hostel is nestled in the heart of Old Town Hanoi, walking distance from the vibrant night markets, beer corner, delicious street food, restaurants and cafes. Once a historic art deco building Little Charm Hanoi Hostel has been given a new lease of life and opened its doors to create unforgettable experiences for travellers backpacking Hanoi.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- FREE buffet breakfast
- Rooftop bar with Panoramic views
- Wild pub crawl every night
Little Charm Hanoi Hostel is also one of the best hostels for digital nomads in Hanoi, thanks to the fast free wifi and workspaces. Little Charm Hanoi Hostel has a good balance between sociability and privacy with the choice of private rooms and mixed dorms. Each dorm is comfortable, clean and has all. your basic needs covered. A comfortable bed, a locker to keep your bags safe and a privacy curtain.
After a busy day exploring Hanoi come back to Little Charm Hanoi Hostel and take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, the perfect way to cool off. Rent a bike to explore, enjoy a meal and drinks in the bar/restaurant, book a range of tours, and trips including the Ha-Gain loop and more.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Hanoi Hostels
Planning on spending more than 3 days in Hanoi? Then you may like to pick a couple of other places to crash.
If you’re still not sure where you want to stay in Hanoi you’ll be pleased to know that there are even more fantastic choices…here are more of the best hostels in Hanoi to choose from.
6. Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Private Room: From $26
- Address: 55 Bat Su Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
One of the best hostels in Hanoi’s Old District, Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel is just a short stroll from Hoan Kiem Lake and other attractions. As well as free breakfast, guests can sink a few glasses of free local beer for an hour each evening a budget backpacker’s dream.
It’s a great way to loosen up! At Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel you can buy a selection of Vietnamese and international dishes from the onsite restaurant or prepare a basic meal with self-catering facilities. Tour booking services, currency exchange, laundry facilities, bicycle rentals, and free Wi-Fi are other convenient perks at Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel.
7. Nexy Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Private Room: From $36
- Address: 12 To Tich, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
A sociable Hanoi backpackers hostel with a choice of dorm sizes (including those for only females) and private rooms, Nexy Hostel has a great selection of common areas to suit your every whim.
Hungry or thirsty? Check out the onsite bar-cum café, a great place to meet other backpackers and hang out. There’s a games room too, with foosball, pool, and board games, and a TV room with free-to-use computers. Dorm beds have curtains, lockers, power outlets, and lights. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are free.
8. VATC Sleep Pods
- Private Room: From $40
- Address: Floor 2, Terminal T2, Noi Bai Internatinal Airport, Noi Bai, Vietnam
Although basic, and pricey, if you’re looking for a convenient Hanoi hostel near the airport, you really couldn’t get any closer than VATC Sleep Pods. The solo and twin sleeping pods are right in the airport—no fear of missing that early morning flight! If you need somewhere to crash after a long flight they’re also ideal.
Tucked into a quiet corner of the airport, there’s a 24-hour reception and places to eat and drink close to hand. Wi-Fi is available in public areas. Do note, though, that there are no bathrooms, only toilets.
9. The One Hostel & Rooftop Pool Hanoi
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Address: 70 Hàng Mã, Hoàn Ki?m, Hanoi, Vietnam
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Hanois party scene with the One Hostel. There are parties every night of the week in the bar, with live Dj’s, and loads of activities like beer pong, quizzes and crazy pub crawls.
They serve a FREE buffet breakfast every morning. If you need a break from all the partying, the rooftop bar and swimming pool will soon sort you out. There is free Wi-Fi throughout and a pool table, perfect for forging some new connections with fellow travellers. You’ll also find a roof terrace, a spacious lounge with a restaurant and bar, plus some comfy booths to chill out in.
10. The Drift Backpackers Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Address: 38 P. Au Trieu, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
The Drift Backpackers hostel is in an ideal location in the heart of Old Town with a beautiful terrace overlooking St Joseph’s Cathedral and the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. They have nailed the laid-back, chilled vibe creating an inviting environment for travellers looking to connect, share hostel stories and relax.
At the Drift Backpackers Hostel, you can choose from mixed or female-only dorms with comfy beds, privacy curtains and a locker to keep your stuff safe. If you’re feeling fancy you can splash out and treat yourself to a private room
11. Luxury Backpackers
Luxury Backpackers is right in the heart of Hanoi’s action. You’ll be strolling to most of the city’s top spots in no time. The staff here are absolute gems, ready to sort anything out for you, from solid recommendations to booking your Ha Giang Loop trip with ease. The dorm beds are super comfy, with spacious bunks and curtains that give you the privacy you need.
12. Downtown Hostel & Rooftop Bar
Downtown Hostel & Rooftop Bar is just a stone’s throw from Hanoi’s main party streets, yet the vibe inside is all calm and chill. The beds are super comfy, with spacious lockers to stash your stuff, and the en-suite bathrooms come with powerful showers that’ll wake you right up. Every morning, you can enjoy a free breakfast on the rooftop, where the sunrise is an absolute stunner. Perfect for soaking up the day ahead!
13. Mad Monkey Hanoi
In true Mad Monkey fashion, this place is the ultimate party hostel. Get the night rolling with FREE BEER every evening at 6:30pm – perfect for kicking off the Hanoi nightlife in style. Whether you’re rolling with a crew or flying solo, this spot’s got the vibe you’re after. The nightly events are an absolute blast, and even with all the wild fun, you can still retreat to your room for a good night’s kip with comfy dorm beds and air conditioning.
14. Hanoi Backpackers Hostel Oldtown
Hanoi Backpackers Hostel Oldtown is a hidden gem in the perfect spot in Hanoi. Tucked away in a quiet corner, it’s just a short stroll to Beer Street and right next to the Jasmine tour office. Book your Ha Giang Loop tour with them, and you’ll snag a free night of accommodation – a sweet deal! The dorms are pod-style, so you get some real privacy with curtains and power outlets at every bed. Plus, they share a rooftop bar with their sister hostel next door, making it super easy to dive into the action and meet fellow travellers.
15. Queen Cafe Hotel & Pub
Queen Cafe Hotel & Pub is nestled in an unbeatable spot, surrounded by bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Despite being in the heart of the old quarter, the rooms are incredibly quiet, providing a peaceful retreat. What really sets this place apart is the staff; they go above and beyond. I arrived unsure of my plans, and within minutes, Bella had my entire trip mapped out! The rooms are clean and modern, and the A/C works like a charm, essential for those summer days. Don’t miss the fab free breakfast too.
16. Global Backpackers Hostel
Global Backpackers Hostel truly lives up to its name – you’ll meet incredible people from all corners of the globe. The dorms are well-equipped, with each bed featuring a personal fan, a towel, a toothbrush, and a handy locker right next to you. The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help out. The breakfast is a winner – sausage, bacon, eggs, toast, orange juice, and coffee – and it doesn’t end super early, which is always a bonus.
17. Hanoi House Hostel & Travel
Hanoi House Hostel & Travel is perfectly situated in the bustling Old Quarter, with tons of food and drink spots just a short walk away. The beds are super comfortable, and the rooms are spotless. They even arrange airport pickup for you, which is a nice touch! If you’re looking to kick back and relax without worrying about a lively atmosphere, this hostel is the perfect spot to unwind.
18. Bong Hanoi Hostel
Bong Hanoi Hostel is a vibrant blend of culture and creativity, offering a stylish and modern stay in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This cosy spot is the perfect base for travellers to relax and swap stories from their Vietnam adventures. The super friendly and helpful staff are always on hand with great recommendations for local restaurants, bars, cafes, and must-see sights around the city. And when you’re ready to tackle the legendary Ha Giang Loop, they’ve got you covered with their own tour.
19. Hanoi Capsule Station Hostel
Hanoi Capsule Station Hostel is ideal for those looking to crash without worrying about socialising. They throw in towels and a bottle of water on arrival, which is a nice touch. The dorms are spacious and clean, but the real gem is the beds – huge and super comfy. If you’re lucky, you might wake up to a city view from a big window. What a way to wake up eh? It’s not a social hostel, but if you’re cool with that, this is a solid pick.
20. Tabalo Hostel Hanoi
Tabalo Hostel Hanoi offers a peaceful escape from the city’s party scene. Expect a great hostel with super comfy beds, excellent showers, and friendly staff. The rooms are cosy and private, with each bed featuring a curtain, light, and fan. The location is excellent, and they also have a fantastic laundry service right on the ground floor. Sure, it’s not social, but it’s a great base if you want to recharge and get a good night’s kip.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Hanoi
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Hanoi.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQ about Hostels in Hanoi
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Hanoi.
What to Pack for your Hanoi Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Hanoi?
Here’s a rough overview of Hanoi hostel average prices: Dorm room mixed or female-only): $5-15 USD/night and Private room: $15-30 USD/night.
What are the best hostels in Hanoi for couples?
Hanoi Friends Inn is our pick for the best Hanoi hostel for couples. It’s comfy and just a short walk from both the night market and Dong Xuan Central Market.
What are the best hostels in Hanoi near the airport?
VATC Sleep Pods is the best Hanoi hostel near the airport. It is in the Noi Bai International Airport — no fear of missing an early morning flight!
What are the best hostels in Hanoi for solo travellers?
Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel is the best Hanoi hostel for solo travellers. There are heaps of cool hangout spaces, plus they’ve got some wicked events and a nightly pub crawl.
Final Thoughts on Hanoi’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Hanoi has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! There are certainly a lot of great options and no doubt you’ll have a blast no matter where you stay.
If you’re ever stuck for choice, I recommend choosing my overall favourite hostel, Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel, which is ideally located, affordable, and super comfortable. What more could you want?
Photo: Sasha Savinov
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Vietnam for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Hanoi covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Hanoi before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
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Great article, very informative for travelers preparing their trip!
Cheers
Nice information about hotels in Vietnam, Hanoi is the city of charms and the city of beauty. Whether you choose to explore the city on your own or through agencies such as the Hanoi city tours by Hanoi Travel Bus.
really love hanoi, and the prices in vietnam are so great for all budgets